CT Paranormal Researcher Involved With Famous Annabelle Doll Dies

CONNECTICUT — A state-based paranormal researcher, Dan Rivera, known as one of the handlers of the famous Annabelle doll, has died, according to the New England Society for Psychic Research.

The organization, NESPR, posted on its Facebook page Monday that Rivera has passed away. He is listed as a senior lead investigator with NESPR on its website.

“We are heartbroken and still processing this loss,” the post states. “Dan truly believed in sharing his experiences and educating people on the paranormal. His kindness and passion touched everyone who knew him. Thank you for your support and kind thoughts during this difficult time.”

Francis Dutrow, coroner with the Adams County Coroner’s office in Pennsylvania, said Wednesday the cause of death is still pending further investigation, and he anticipates having autopsy results in about two months.

Rivera was born and raised in Bridgeport, and he has been involved in paranormal research for about a decade, according to his IMDb biography.

He has been participating in NESPR’s “Devils on the Run Tour,” in which the Annabelle doll appeared at an event in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania over the weekend.

The reportedly haunted doll usually makes its home at the Warren's Occult Museum in Monroe, which was founded by the famous late paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The couple and the doll have inspired multiple horror films, ranging from “Annabelle” to “The Conjuring.”

NESPR, in a lengthy press release issued Tuesday, noted that Rivera was a U.S. Army veteran, father, devoted husband, and loyal friend.

“Dan was not only a vital part of our team for over a decade, but also a deeply compassionate, loyal, and dedicated friend,” the organization said.

“As we navigate the days ahead, we want to share that although we do not know what the future of NESPR will look like without Dan, we do plan to move forward with the events previously scheduled for this year,” the release states. “We believe with all our hearts that Dan would have wanted the work to continue-bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and honoring the memory of Ed & Lorraine Warren. We will carry his spirit with us in everything we do.”

Many in the paranormal community are remembering Rivera fondly and honoring his accomplishments.

Jason Hawes, founder of the Rhode Island-based The Atlantic Paranormal Society, or TAPS, and star of the television show “Ghost Hunters” wrote on Facebook that Rivera was “someone who truly cared about people.”

“Dan was a family man, a respected paranormal investigator, and he left this world way too soon,” Hawes wrote.